I Got Vaccinated – Now What?

Gwinnett Moms Say “Thank You”

When you get vaccinated, you don’t just protect yourself. You also protect the people you love and your community. Thanks to you, Gwinnett is moving closer to something like normal.

If you’re still waiting for your appointment, thank you for your patience. We hope you’ll be ready to do your part when the time comes—we’re counting on you!

Vaccinated but Still Vigilant

Getting vaccinated is a big step toward stopping the spread of COVID-19. But we’re not done once we’re vaccinated.

According to the CDC, it’s still unclear if a vaccinated person can spread the virus to other people, even if the vaccinated person doesn’t get sick. To truly get back to normal, we need to keep wearing masks, social distancing, and washing our hands regularly. We know, we’re all ready for things to get back to normal. But by working together as one Gwinnett County, we’ll get there!

Spread the Word

Want to make mom even prouder? Spread the word about vaccination. You may know someone who’s not sure about getting a COVID-19 vaccine. If you do, share your experience, encourage them to contact their health care provider with questions, and guide them to online resources like this site and the Gwinnett, Newton, and Rockdale County Health Departments vaccine website.

Common Side Effects

Side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine are perfectly normal and to be expected. The most common side effects include short-term pain and swelling on the arm where you got the shot, fever, chills, tiredness, and headache. These side effects are fine, and even show that your body is building defenses against COVID-19. Not to worry, even if you don’t have side effects, the vaccine is still working just as well.

You should contact your health care provider if redness or soreness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours or if your side effects do not seem to be going away after a few days.

Do I Need a Second Dose?

The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines require two doses spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart. You’ll make an appointment for your second dose when you check in for your first. The health care providers at your vaccination site will tell you exactly when and where to go to get your second dose.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine requires only one dose. If you got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you don’t need to get a second dose.

I Got Vaccinated – Now What? – FAQ

How long will it take for the vaccine to become fully effective?

The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines require two doses spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines reach full effectiveness 7 to 14 days after the second dose.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine requires only one dose. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine reaches full effectiveness 28 days after vaccination.

What if my side effects get worse or last longer than a few days?

Discomfort, fever, and soreness are normal after getting vaccinated. You should contact your doctor or health care provider if:

Redness or soreness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours
Your side effects do not seem to be going away after a few days

If I have side effects, how would I know if they’re serious and need medical attention?

If you get a COVID-19 vaccine and you think you might be having a severe allergic reaction after leaving the vaccination site, seek immediate medical care by calling 911.

According to the CDC, a small number of people have experienced anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, to the vaccine. Signs of anaphylaxis usually occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen and include:

Skin reactions, like hives, itching, and flushed or pale skin
Low blood pressure (hypotension)
Constriction of your airways and a swollen tongue or throat
A weak and rapid pulse
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Dizziness or fainting

Anaphylaxis is very rare, and it is readily treated with medicines available to vaccination providers. For this reason, you will be asked to stay 15 to 30 minutes after your vaccination so that you can be observed by medical professionals and receive treatment in the unlikely case that it is needed.

Can I take pain relievers if I have side effects from the vaccine?

If you’re experiencing common side effects like fever, pain, or swelling after getting your vaccine, the CDC recommends that you talk to your health care provider about taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, you should not take pain relievers before getting your vaccine. Consult with your health care provider before taking any new medication.

I got vaccinated. Can I visit with my family and friends now?

According to the latest guidance from the CDC, people are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or two weeks after they get the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Once you are fully vaccinated, you can visit other fully vaccinated people indoors without masks or social distancing. You can also visit unvaccinated people from a single household indoors without wearing masks or social distancing, as long as the unvaccinated people are not at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Fully vaccinated people can also participate in outdoor activities and recreation without wearing a mask, except in crowded settings and venues.

For now, fully vaccinated people should continue to wear masks in indoor, public settings, when visiting unvaccinated people who are at increased risk for severe COVID-19, and when visiting unvaccinated people from multiple households.

How soon can I stop wearing a mask?

According to the CDC, there is not enough information yet to know if a vaccinated person can still spread the virus to other people, even if the vaccinated person doesn’t get sick or experience symptoms.

While experts continue to learn more, keep wearing a mask in crowded, outdoor settings and indoor, public settings, following social distancing guidelines, and washing your hands regularly to protect yourself and those around you.

Can I still get COVID-19 if I got the vaccine?

The vaccines currently available in the U.S. are highly effective in preventing COVID-19. While your risk of getting the virus is low after you get vaccinated, it is still possible.

For your safety and the safety of those around you, and in line with the latest CDC guidance, it is recommended that you continue wearing a mask, following social distancing guidelines and washing your hands regularly, even after you’re vaccinated.

Can I still spread COVID-19 if I got the vaccine?

After getting both doses of the vaccine, it can take several days for your body to build up protection to COVID-19. In that time, it’s possible to become infected with the virus.

Researchers are exploring whether people who have been vaccinated can still spread the virus, even if they don’t get sick. Even after you get vaccinated, you could still pose a risk to unvaccinated family, friends, and neighbors if you visit with them in person. In line with the latest CDC guidance, it is recommended that you continue wearing a mask, following social distancing guidelines, and washing your hands regularly while the scientific community continues to learn more.